Why Schools Ask Every Visitor to Sign In

Signing in, wearing a badge and waiting at reception can feel like a hassle. It's part of how schools keep children safe.

Schools in England must follow statutory safeguarding guidance called Keeping Children Safe in Education. As part of this, most schools ask every adult who comes on site, including parents and volunteers, to sign in at reception, show identification if asked, and wear a visitor badge or lanyard.

Why familiar faces sign in too

If there's an emergency, the signing-in record tells staff exactly who is in the building. A badge also lets staff and pupils see at a glance who is meant to be there, so anyone without one can be politely challenged.

Who to talk to about a worry

Every school has a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), a senior member of staff responsible for child protection. If you're worried about a child's safety or wellbeing, you can ask to speak to the DSL. Their name is usually on the school website.

Sources

• Keeping children safe in education (Department for Education)
• Example of a school's visitor and safeguarding information (Queensbridge Primary School)

Keeping Children Safe in Education applies to England. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own child protection guidance for schools.

This post is general information. Your school's own plan comes first, so ask the school office for its procedures.